What unit is work measured in?

Work is measured in Joules. This unit is derived from the definition of work in physics, which states that work is done when a force causes an object to move a certain distance. The mathematical expression for work is W = F × d, where W is work, F is the force applied, and d is the distance moved in the direction of the force.

In the SI unit system, the unit of force is the Newton (N), and the unit of distance is the meter (m). When you multiply these units (newtons multiplied by meters), you obtain the unit of work, which is Joules (1 Joule = 1 Newton × 1 meter).

Understanding work in this way helps clarify why Joules is the correct unit, as it reflects both the force applied and the displacement caused by that force. This connection between the fundamental ideas of force, distance, and energy makes the concept of work a cornerstone in the study of physics.